Trick or Treating: Advice from Thames Valley Police

Halloween and the days preceding, is one of the busiest times of year for the police. They will always prioritise 999 calls so you may experience a delay when making a non-emergency call on 101.

If your call is not an emergency, you can report a crime or anti-social behaviour online. A dedicated team of operators work 24/7 to read and act on reports that are submitted, meaning you don’t have to wait on hold for your 101 call to be answered.

While Halloween is an exciting time for many, be aware that not everyone is happy for you to call at their home to trick or treat.

If you would prefer not to be disturbed by trick or treaters, you can download this poster to display prominently in your window.

If you or your children see this flyer displayed, please move on to the next house. Most people will have a pumpkin or Halloween decorations on display to indicate that they welcome callers.

If you plan to go trick or treating, please:

  • only visit the homes of people you know well or who are clearly displaying Halloween decorations.
  • respect the wishes of those who display a no-trick-or-treat poster,
  • be considerate of those who may find large groups of people in scary costumes intimidating.

Police officers will be conducting extra patrols around Halloween. If you feel unsafe:

  • don’t open your door if you’re unsure who is there.
  • use your spyhole, look out of a window, and use your door chain if you do decide to open your door.
  • have a contact number of a close relative, friend or good neighbour to hand by your telephone, just in case you need to phone them.

Remember, if a crime is in progress or if you feel your life is in danger then call 999.  For non-emergencies, you can report crimes and ASB online or by calling 101.

Pumpkin Trail

If you don’t fancy traditional ‘trick or treating’ where you’d normally knock on doors and take treats from bowls that many little hands have already touched, there is the option of a ‘pumpkin’ trail where you go out as a family (all dressed up to scare) and look out for houses with Halloween decorations and pumpkins. Each time you see a pumpkin, you give your own child a treat from the supply you’ve taken along.

Equally you might want to create a Halloween-themed family scavenger hunt in your own home or garden.

Penny Post
Author: Penny Post

Penny Post is a community notice board serving West Berkshire, Wantage, Swindon, Marlborough and surrounding areas so there

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